Put lives before livelihoods

Re: Niagara COVID-19 super-spreader cluster linked to GTA infections, Nov. 9; Region asks Hirji to ease ‘unfair’ restaurant requirements, Nov. 19; Hirji not rescinding restrictions on restaurants, Nov. 19

In the first article the acting medical officer of health, Dr. Mustafa Hirji “was unwilling to say which communities have been impacted.” In the same article, at least 11 deaths in Niagara care homes were mentioned but only the name and location of one was given.

Why? There does not seem to be any reliable system of sharing information in a logical manner. Does it not make sense that the more accurate information shared with the public the better?

In the second article, it appears the mayors finally realize educating the public about the danger to all of us in not following the advice of the medical experts isn’t working.

We are all suffering pandemic fatigue. I have experienced the loss of two people in the last two months and was unable to attend a funeral service with their families. My list of things I feel safe doing does not include a meal in a restaurant.

I know bars and restaurants are hurting, but as recent events have shown, trusting people to use common sense and to care about how their actions may cause illness and death to others is a failure.

Attacking Dr. Hirji for doing his job are the reactions of desperate, frightened people. The remarks of Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati were less than helpful as usual.

The Trudeau government has given millions to the provinces to help businesses in danger of going under. Instead of attacking health experts, ask Doug Ford why only a fraction of these funds have been dispersed.

Richard Murri

Niagara Falls